Bugs, Burns, Beaches, and Barbeques

Sarah Bowman MCHS, PA-C

Prevention truly is the best medicine when it comes to summer medical problems. Here is some helpful advice to enjoy summer activities while decreasing the chances of an unplanned trip to urgent care or the emergency room.

Bugs

During the hot weather months, Kinwell clinicians see more mosquito and tick bites. While it’s rare to get sick from a tick bite in Washington, ticks can carry Lyme disease and Rocky Mountain Spotted Fever. The best way to prevent these illnesses is by reducing exposure to them and preventing ticks from biting. The Washington State Department of Health has outlined several tips to prevent unwanted tick bites.

  • Wear appropriate clothing.
  • Use tick repellent.
  • Check for ticks when done outside.
  • Shower after getting indoors.
  • Remind your family to check for ticks and don’t forget to check your pets.

Washington summers can provide the ideal conditions for mosquitoes. Their itchy bites can be a real nuisance, but you can take a few simple steps to prevent bug bites

  • Wear protective clothing such as a long sleeve shirt, long pants, and a hat. These can not only help protect you from mosquitoes but also from sunburn.
  • If using a mosquito repellent, check the label and follow the instructions, and take extra special care reviewing instructions before applying repellent on children.
  • Control mosquitoes by emptying any areas of standing water around your home and make sure your roof gutters are draining properly.

Burns

You may be surprised to learn Washington has higher than average rates of melanoma, a serious form of skin cancer. Taking a few simple steps can ensure you’re able to still enjoy spending more time outside, which can be the best part about summer.

  • Protect your skin by seeking shade between 10:00am and 2:00pm, which is when the sun’s rays are the strongest.
  • Dress with a wide-brimmed hat and sunglasses to protect your face and eyes. Reduce skin cancer risks by wearing long sleeve shirts and pants to cover your arms and legs.
  • Apply sunscreen to protect the skin you can’t cover with clothing. A broad-spectrum sunscreen with SPF-30 or higher with water resistance is recommended. Heat from the sun affects more than just your skin, it can also raise your body temperature. If body temperatures rise too much, it can cause heat exhaustion, heat stroke, and/or death. When extreme heat is forecasted, plan ahead and make sure you have access to shade, indoor air conditioning, and/or a cooling center.

Other precautions include:

  • Staying hydrated
  • Arranging for family or friends to check in with you at least twice a day through warm weather periods
  • Covering windows that get morning or afternoon sun to help keep your home cool
  • Checking that people or pets have not been left in parked vehicles

Beaches & water sports

A nice swim at the lake or refreshing dip in the ocean can be a fun activity during the summer. Regardless of swimming ability, there are some key things to remember to stay safe on the water.

  • Never swim alone and always have adult supervision when children are in the water.
  • To prevent drownings, everyone should wear a Life Jacket that is properly fitted.
  • Check the water quality before you head to your local swimming area. People and dogs can get sick from playing in contaminated water.

BBQ and Picnics

Outdoor grilling is a favorite activity for many families. Take a few extra steps to make sure you’re able to enjoy your meal and keep your home safe. Structure fires and grilling accidents are preventable. Make sure you follow these grilling safety tips when using your grilling equipment.

  • Never leave a lit grill unattended.
  • Keep your equipment well-maintained and keep it in an open space away from anything that might catch on fire when in use.
  • To prevent foodborne illness, make sure you cook your food to safe minimum internal temperatures.
  • Follow USDA guidance that recommends that all perishable food be refrigerated within 2 hours. Refrigerate within 1 hour when the temperature rises above 90 °F.
  • Keep your food prep area clean. Avoid cross-contamination by keeping your raw and cooked surfaces and utensils separate. Clean your food thermometer after each use. Wash your hands with warm, soapy water for 20 seconds for food safety and personal hygiene.

Summer routines for kids & teens

One behavioral health issue for children and teens that arises in the summer months is a lack of structure. “Losing structure and routine can create anxiety and contribute to kids feeling bored and restless,” noted Dr. Asher Strauss, head of Kinwell’s behavioral health program. “A lack of structure can also lead to an increase in screen time, and we know that can have a negative impact on mental health. Creating a schedule with some flexibility and freedom is ideal, with opportunities for kids to learn or explore new hobbies, get outside and be active, engage in events and social connection, while also allowing some freedom of choice and down time.”  Best of all, maintaining some routine and structure for students over the summer makes for an easier transition back to school in the fall.

 

If you have a health concern, it is best to seek evaluation from your Kinwell clinician. Many common summer ailments can be treated through Kinwell’s Virtual Care Clinic. Patients can often book an appointment for the same or next day, Monday through Friday. Schedule your visit on our Appointments, through your MyChart account, or by calling 833-411-5469. For life-threatening emergencies, call 911 or go to the nearest emergency department.

This content is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice or professional services.